—File Photo

Talks between Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation have on Monday begun for the disbursement of third tranche of about $450 million under the $6 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) finalised in May last year.

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh talked to media and confirmed that talks with the IMF have commenced for third installment of loan.

“Several measures, including import of wheat, have been taken by the government to control inflation. Pakistani currency has strengthened against US dollar. Foreign investors are now interested to do business in Pakistan.

On the completion of first review of Pakistan's economic performance in December, the IMF acknowledged that Pakistan's reform program is on track and already producing results.

IMF has released SDR 328 million (about $ 452.4 million), bringing total disbursements to SDR 1,044 million (approx $1.45 billion). Meanwhile, Pakistan will receive $450 million if talks succeed this time.